The mission of the Office of the
Medical Examiner is to provide medicolegal investigations into all deaths requiring
a public inquiry to determine and record the cause and manner of death for the families
of the decedent, and the legal and medical community so that they can effect a resolution
and have closure, affix responsibility, and protect public health and safety.

Program Goals:

By 2007, the Office of Medical
Examiner will improve service to families and other agencies by completing cases
within established time frames of 90% of cases closed within 45 days and 100% of
cases closed within 90 days.

By 2007, the Office of Medical
examiner will receive accreditation from the National Association of Medical Examiners
(NAME) and Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT) to increase the expertise of
staff investigating death related cases.

By 2007, the Office of Medical
Examiner will increase certification of investigative staff by 10% to compliment
the cooperative efforts with law enforcement agencies, public health, and county
attorney investigating death related cases to insure the safety and welfare of the
residents of Maricopa County.

Community Impact:

A complete and objective medicolegal
investigation provides for the expeditious settling of insurance claims and estates
as well as for civil and criminal adjunction. Surviving family, friends and general
public should have the assurance that a complete and impartial professional medicolegal
investigation was conducted resulting in the assurance of a safe and healthy community.